
QUEEN’S DIAMOND RETURNS – $5M BID Expected!
An iconic heirloom once gracing the daughter of a French queen is set to dazzle the auction world with its illustrious past and pink-hued splendor.
At a Glance
- A large pink diamond, associated with Queen Marie Antoinette, will be auctioned in New York.
- The jewel, with a 10-carat size, is mounted in a ring designed by Joel Arthur Rosenthal.
- “Magnificent Jewels” auction at Christie’s Rockefeller Center will host the diamond on June 17.
- Expected sale price of the diamond ranges from $3 million to $5 million.
A Jewel Reserve from History
Queen Marie Antoinette’s rare pink diamond is captivating enthusiasts and collectors alike. The jewel is entering the auction ring at Christie’s, New York, promising to fetch a handsome price. Recognized for its historical ties to the French monarchy, its worth transcends mere carats, shimmering with historical significance and magnificent craft.
The diamond is a testament to exquisite artistry. Known for its kite-shaped design, it was crafted into a ring by acclaimed jeweler Joel Arthur Rosenthal. Its estimated sale price reaffirms its allure, expected to rake in between $3 million and $5 million. Understanding the diamond’s provenance provides deeper insights into its rich heritage.
Heritage and Intrigue
The gemstone purportedly originates from the mid-18th century and was once in the possession of Duchess Marie-Thérèse, Queen Marie Antoinette’s daughter. Royal narratives speak of Marie Antoinette entrusting her jewels to her coiffeur during a fateful escape from Paris in 1791. These relics later became treasures of the Duchess Marie-Thérèse, fortifying its intrigue.
Initially, many rare diamonds like this one are said to have been mined from the celebrated Golconda region of India. They possess unique qualities that separate them from other gems. The pink diamond’s historical voyage through time and preservation from public view since its 1996 Geneva auction further compounds its allure and mystery.
Awaiting Its Next Chapter
The upcoming event at Christie’s Rockefeller Center marks another chapter in this jewel’s journey. Rahul Kadakia, head of jewelry at Christie’s, emphasized its distinctiveness, encapsulating both the artistry and history that this diamond embodies. For collectors, it’s an opportunity to own not just a stunning piece but a fragment of history, with roots in one of Europe’s most storied royal families.
As this pink diamond prepares to find a new owner, it continues to draw attention from art historians, gemologists, and lineage enthusiasts alike. Its sale will undoubtedly weave another thread into the fabric of its storied past, reinforcing its role in the annals of both gemological and royal history.